2-Bromohexadecanoic Acid, identified by the CAS number 18263-25-7, is a long-chain brominated fatty acid widely used as a chemical intermediate in research laboratories, biochemical studies, and specialty chemical development. Its unique structure—combining a 16-carbon saturated chain with a bromine atom and a carboxylic acid group—gives it special reactivity and value across scientific and industrial applications.
This article explores the characteristics, uses, and significance of 2-Bromohexadecanoic Acid in modern chemical and biological research.
2-Bromohexadecanoic Acid is a brominated fatty acid derivative that belongs to the class of long-chain organic acids. It is closely related to palmitic acid but features a bromine atom at the second carbon, giving it distinctive chemical behavior.
Chemical Name: 2-Bromohexadecanoic Acid
CAS Number: 18263-25-7
Molecular Formula: C16H31BrO2
Chemical Type: Brominated long-chain carboxylic acid
Its structure allows it to participate in biologically relevant transformations and organic synthesis.
The 16-carbon backbone offers stability and compatibility with lipid-based systems.
The presence of bromine enhances:
Reactivity in substitution reactions
Usefulness as a biochemical probe
Value as a precursor in specialty organic synthesis
The –COOH group allows:
Esterification
Amide formation
Conjugation with biologically active compounds
Typically appears as:
White or off-white solid
Stable under normal storage conditions
This compound is used to study:
Lipid metabolism
Enzyme interactions with modified fatty acids
Biological pathways involving long-chain acyl derivatives
Its brominated structure often acts as a tag or probe for biochemical analysis.
Used as an intermediate for:
Designing lipid-based drug molecules
Building modified fatty acid derivatives
Studying structure–activity relationships (SAR)
Its unique branching and halogenation support pharmaceutical innovation.
Industries use it for:
Developing advanced surfactants
Producing specialty esters and amides
Creating functionalized long-chain molecules
The bromine group makes it suitable for further chemical transformations.
Used in studies related to:
Lipid bilayer interactions
Membrane chemistry
Fatty acid modifications for material science
It provides valuable insights into lipid-derived structures.
Like all laboratory chemicals, 2-Bromohexadecanoic Acid must be handled with care.
Protective gloves
Safety goggles
Lab coat
Proper ventilation
Store in a cool, dry place
Keep container sealed
Protect from heat and moisture
Avoid inhalation of dust
Prevent skin or eye contact
Follow SDS guidelines from the supplier
2-Bromohexadecanoic Acid is significant because it bridges the gap between:
Organic chemistry
Lipid science
Biochemical research
Pharmaceutical development
Its functional design—long chain + bromine + carboxylic acid—makes it a highly versatile and valuable intermediate for modern scientific applications.
18263-25-7 (2-Bromohexadecanoic Acid) is a specialized compound widely used in research laboratories and chemical industries. Its unique structure enables important studies in lipid metabolism, biochemical pathways, pharmaceutical development, and specialty organic synthesis. As demand for advanced chemical intermediates increases, its role continues to expand across industrial and academic research sectors.
